Symbols of the Divine-Understanding The Hinduism's Sacred Icons

Hinduism is one of the world's oldest and most intricate religions characterized by its diversity and philosophical depth. It is the world's third-largest, and India's largest religion.

Hinduism stands apart from many other religions due to the lack of a single founder, scripture, or universally agreed-upon teachings. Instead, it thrives as a collection of diverse traditions, philosophies, and practices that have evolved over thousands of years.

Symbols play a vital role in Hinduism embodying profound meanings and serving as tools for protection, guidance, and strength. Here I mention 6 sacred symbols of Hinduism and their significance:

1. Om ( A-U-M):

v Represents the sacred sound and ultimate reality. Often referred to as the prime symbol of Hinduism and is said to be the primordial sound from which the universe was created. The three symbols A-U-M represent the trinity of the three Gods: A -Brahma ( the creator), U- for Vishnu, and M- for Shiva.

v Om is a sacred syllable sound, and symbol in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Often chanted during Meditation and Yoga practices. It is also uttered at the beginning and end of Hindu prayers and chants.

v The sound of universe and the vibrations that are enough to put your mind at peace in an instant. Chanting of Om is one of the most peaceful and freeing feeling and can immediately calm you down.

2. Swastika:

v An ancient symbol used in many cultures for 1000s of years.Derived from the Sanskrit word ‘suvastu' which is composed of ‘su’ which means “ good, well” and “astu” which means “it is there”.

v Swastik is used in various Eurasian religions and cultures. In Hinduism, the right-facing symbol( clockwise) symbolizes Surya(sun), prosperity, and good luck, while the left-facing symbol ( counter-clockwise) is called Sauvastika and symbolizes night or tantric aspects of Kali.

v It has four arms and a dot, between each of them, having a specific meaning. The four dots represent Dharma, Artha, Kaam, and Moksha. The four arms of Swastika are about - mind, dedication, salvation, and consciousness.

3. Trishul ( Trident):

Photo by spandyoga in pinterest

☀Trishul, a revered symbol, is closely associated with Lord Shiva’s supreme power and the destruction of evil forces.

☀Trishul is a trident, a divine symbol commonly used as one of the principal symbols in Hinduism.

☀The three points represent the power to destroy negativity and ignorance allowing positive forces to emerge.

4. Blooming Lotus ( Padma):

Photo by Thomas Oxford on Unsplash

v A blooming lotus symbolizes new beginnings, positivity, and healing of self.

v Lotus is connected with purity, rebirth, inspirational enlightenment, and divinity. Used in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism it symbolizes rising from a dark place into beauty and rebirth.

v It submerges every night into the water and meticulously re-blooms the next morning. As a result, this is associated with rebirth and spiritual enlightenment.

v Lotus flowers with white and pink petals symbolize purity and devotion that build a lifelong bond with your partner.

5. Tilaka ( Tikka):

v Symbol of devotion, cultural identity, and protection from negative energies Tikka is an ornamental spot worn on the forehead in Hinduism.

v Traditionally done with sacred ash known as Vibhuti, from sacrificial fires, it is also a symbol of detachment from the world or renunciation.

v It consists of three horizontal bands across the forehead with a single vertical band or circle in the middle.

6. Namaste:

v A customary Hindu manner of respectfully greeting and honoring a person, used at any time of the day.

v The word Namaste associated with both Hinduism and yoga, comes from Sanskrit and literally means “bowing to you” or “I bow to you” as a greeting.

v Namaste is formed from “namah” meaning “bow, adoration” and “te” meaning “to you”. a respectful Indian mode of address or salutation performed by joining the palms, inclining the head, and saying ‘namaskar’ or ‘namaste’.

v Namaste means ‘I bow before the divine in you’.

v When performing namaste salutation you merely recognize that there is a divine entity in every person. It acknowledges the fact that God resides in each person and one should be treated, respected, and greeted accordingly. It is a bowing to Parmatma or God inside everyone’s atma or soul.

These symbols transcend more artistic or decorative purposes; they are embedded rituals shaping the spiritual and cultural fabric of Hindu life. One can gain deeper insights into the essence of Hindu philosophy by understanding and embracing these symbols

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